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Freedom Riders IIUp until the early 1960s, blacks traveling into the South had to endure local segregation laws in bus and train stations. When the U.S. Supreme Court ruled segregation in interstate travel unconstitutional, black and white students came together to test that ruling in a movement known as the Freedom Rides. Rhonda Colvin examines the violent days when the movement came to Alabama and interviews witnesses and some of the riders themselves. The program also includes interviews with participants from the 2011 Student Freedom Ride, a 50th anniversary re-creation of the first bus trips.

Jett Williams"I had four families before I was four, was orphaned three times, and had six name changes," says Jett Williams.
Twice disinherited, the successful country music artist's early life was anything but normal. In a special new episode of Alabama Stories, she discusses the battle she fought to prove her paternity and to become a legal heir to the estate of her biological father, Hank Williams.

Born in Montgomery, in 1953 five days after Williams’ death, she was adopted by her paternal grandmother, who died in 1957. Passed to Hank’s sister, Jett was turned into the state as an unwanted child and was placed in the Alabama foster care system, where she was adopted by a family living in Mobile.

While attending the University of Alabama, Jett’s adoptive father confided to her that it was possible that she was the daughter of the legendary Hank Williams. In 1980, she began a campaign to verify her paternity and a battle to claim her share of Williams’ estate that ended in 1987 when, having been declared the biological child of Williams, she was awarded half of Williams’ estate. Her court case resulted in changes in numerous laws, including those governing inheritance rights of adopted children.

Tasting The SouthSome would argue that southern food is the most recognizable cuisine in the United States. "Tasting the South" will examine the culture of southern cooking - from the history of how it all began to its growing popularity and appeal outside of the South.

For Love of the GameBirmingham's Rickwood Field annually hosts the "Rickwood Classic" featuring the Birmingham Barons versus a fellow Southern League squad. The teams, umpires and some fans dress up in old-fashioned uniforms and clothes for the event. 2010's Rickwood Classic honors the 100th Anniversary of Rickwood Field opening as a baseball facility. In fact, it's the oldest functioning baseball stadium in the country. Players from back in the day from the Southern League and Negro League came back for the event - and a special honor took place for members of the Negro League.

Life After DeathAlabama Stories: Life After Death, produced by APT’s Lori Cummings, features the accounts of individuals who claim to have experienced life after death and includes interviews with Birmingham’s Dr. T. Lee Baumann, a noted author and a researcher who claims there is scientific research to support the validity of the experience; thanaologist (thanatology is the study of death and dying) and author Barbara Harris Whitfield, who claims to have had a near-death experience; and Alice Vaughn, a medical social worker with Hospice of Montgomery, who talks about her experiences regarding patients’ behavior at death. The program also features an interview with a resident of Millport, Ala., who talks about her near-death experience.

Dr. T. Lee Baumann has a new book that’s just been published titled “Matter to Mind to Consciousness: Anatomy of the E.L.F.,” which explores and explains the possible links between human consciousness, the paranormal and science (http://www.google.com/profiles/tleebaumann). Baumann also wrote “God at the Speed of Light: The Melding of Science and Spirituality,” which inspired the TV series “Joan of Arcadia.”

Barbara Whitfield Harris is the author of five books, including “Full Circle: The Near-Death Experience and Beyond,” “Spiritual Awakenings: Insights of the Near Death Experience and Other Doorways to Our Soul” and “Final Passage: Sharing the Journey As This Life Ends.”

Amir GwirtzmanGwirtzman is virtuoso of more than 20 instruments, including obscure and antique Middle Eastern horns whose shapes would have given Dr. Seuss a challenge. Out of those disparate shapes and from the music of incomprehensible languages, Gwirtzman breathes the universally understood melody of humanity.

Lister HillJ. Lister Hill of Montgomery, Ala. changed state and national healthcare with more than sixty pieces of leglislation and numerous other bills during his 45 years in the U.S. Congress. He was a progressive Democrat and an advocate of the New Deal programs. The impact of his legislative programs still affects Alabama today.

Helen KellerALABAMA STORIES revisits the history of one of Alabama's most famous residents - Helen Keller - who was recently honored with a bronze statue in the National Statuary Hall collection in U.S. Capitol visitor center. The statue depicts Keller as a seven-year-old child standing at a water pump and represents the seminal moment in Keller's life when she understood her first word: W-A-T-E-R, as signed into her hand by teacher Anne Sullivan. The pedestal base bears a quotation in raised letters and Braille characters: "The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched, they must be felt with the heart." Helen Keller, a woman who championed for the disabled throughout her life, will continue to inspire a national audience in Washington DC.

Freedom RidersWhen the U.S. Supreme Court ruled segregation in interstate travel unconstitutional, black and white students came together to test that ruling in a movement known as the Freedom Rides. Rhonda Colvin examines the days the movement came to Alabama and interviews witnesses and some of the riders themselves who quickly learned when change is sought, it is not always welcomed.

Honor FlightThe National World War II Memorial in Washington DC, has been visited by thousands since it opened just five years ago. However since it’s construction occurred almost 60 years after the end of the war, those whom the memorial honors never had a chance to see it. Through the program “Honor Flight-Birmingham”, Alabama WWII veterans are now given the opportunity to see the World War II Memorial. Watch as we follow this group on a day they most likely will never forget

Using Garbage to Build a HomeYour garbage may wind up helping build a new home. Jenkins Brick, a more than century-old business, uses gas produced from landfill waste to make bricks. Landfill gas contains methane, a flammable gas, used in the kilns where bricks are hardened. ALABAMA STORIES looks at what the process could mean for the environment, energy independence, and revenue for local governments.

Alabama’s Young Writers & IllustratorsIt is time again for Alabamas young writers and illustrators to dust off their pens, crayons, markers, and paints. The time is upon us for the Annual Young Writers and Illustrators Contest hostedby Alabama Public Television. To get potential contestants ready Alabama Stories features the winners from the 2008 contest. The winners were announced at the Alabama Book Festival. The program gives you a look at the stories taking top honors.

Teacher Boot Camp with Randy ScottSome teachers got the chance to see how a boot camp operates. The teachers are going to Parris Island, South Carolina. The location is a training location for the United State Marine Corps. The purpose of the trip is let teachers and officers learn their shared mission.

Marching Into History with Lori CummingsThe Story Corps Griot has been working to record the stories of African Americans. The group visited Alabama earlier this year. Jean Jackson, Dr. Fredrick Reese, and others tell the story of Selma in the 1960s during the Civil Rights Movement.

Alabama’s Olympic Connection with Rhonda Colvin Alabama and the international Olympics are as interlinked as the rings on the Olympic flag. Alabama is home to a multitude of Olympic medalists, and some of the greatest Olympic heroes our country has ever seen. In 1996, Alabama was honored to host some of the summer Olympic games. Legendary Legion Field, often called the “Football Capitol of the South” gave way to the European version of football—soccer. Rhonda Colvin explores ties to the Olympics—past, present and future.

State’s Football Programs The Alabama Department of Tourism has declared 2008 as the “Year of Alabama Sports.” And, of course, what’s the biggest sport in the state? Football! Rhonda Colvin examines college football in the state, from the growth of new programs to the economic benefits schools reap from their gridiron gladiators. Roll Tide! War Eagle! -- Can’t we all just get along?

Aliens Among Us"Aliens Among Us". Sounds like a B Sci-Fi movie, or a special on the immigration issue, but in this week's Alabama Stories, Tim Lennox explores the invasion of alien plants and animals in Alabama. One of them is described as such a big threat to Alabama's environment that a war council was convened in May to form a battle plan. Another is the plant we love to hate...Kudzu. And we'll tell you something about that creepin' vine you've probably never heard before. And we'll show you a 200 acre section of the state where almost of the invasives have been cleared out.

Pain at the Pump with Randy ScottWith gas prices at record levels, motorists around the country (including Alabama) are feeling the pinch. On top of a lackluster vacation travel season, consumers can expect to see an increase in the price of goods, especially food items. And what about those who work with gas-operated equipment? From farmers to fishermen on the Alabama coast, higher fuel costs are making an impact. With the help of an economist or two, Randy Scott attempts to break down the actual price of gas. He also examines problems such as gas theft and a possible increase in fees for those who use credit cards to purchase fuel.

Something Wicked in Russell CountyIn the 1940s, Phenix City, Alabama was controlled by out of town mobsters. Gambling, prostitution, alcohol and drugs were a central part of the night life in the Russell County community. Attorney and resident Albert Patterson wanted to clean up the town and ran for Attorney General. Patterson was gunned down, murdered for his ambitions. Martial Law was declared and the clean up began. ALABAMA STORIES explores how the city overcame all obstacles and rose from the ashes. In 1955 Phenix City was awarded the title "All American City."

Taking Off with Chris NewboldInvestment, jobs and money—Mobile and surrounding communities are on the verge of becoming the next “boomtown” in the Gulf South region. A massive steel mill, one of the largest current investments in the county, is currently under construction near southern Alabama’s largest city. Mobile has also landed a key aircraft assembly plant. Chris Newbold examines the effects on the region from this influx of high-paying jobs and the “spin-off” factor.

Alabama’s Young Writers & IllustratorsOnce again, the Alabama Stories team joins together to honor the 2008 Young Writers & Illustrators of Alabama. The popular PBS KIDS series Reading Rainbow sponsored its 14th Annual Young Writers & Illustrators contest. The competition is open to children in grades K-3. State winners were selected in each of the grade levels, and the first-place winners will go on to compete on the national level. Alabama Stories was there to capture the excitement, from the gathering of the judging committee (which included author and poet Charles “Father Goose” Ghigna) to the final awards ceremony at the Alabama Book Festival in Montgomery’s Old Alabama Town. Meet the generation who will write tomorrow’s Alabama stories.

Alabama’s Olympic Connection with Rhonda ColvinAlabama and the international Olympics are as interlinked as the rings on the Olympic flag. Alabama is home to a multitude of Olympic medalists, and some of the greatest Olympic heroes our country has ever seen. In 1996, Alabama was honored to host some of the summer Olympic games. Legendary Legion Field, often called the “Football Capitol of the South” gave way to the European version of football—soccer. Rhonda Colvin explores ties to the Olympics—past, present and future.

Alabama Goes Green with Lakia RichardsonIn 2008, Forbes magazine named Alabama one of the worst “green states” in the country. Alabama leaders, businessmen and homeowners are working to shake this stigma. Find out which businesses and communities in the state have set a goal of “going green,” and the efforts they are making to do so. From fraternities to families, Alabama citizens are taking stock of their duty to preserve our resources. Lakia Richardson explains the origins of the green trend, as well as the controversies that surround the initiative.

License to Drive with Tim LennoxThe earning of a driver’s license at the age of 16 is a rite of passage for almost all Alabamians. But for the parents of these new drivers, watching their children leave the house alone with a car can be frightening. Alabama has one of the leading teen-driver fatality rates in the country. Tim Lennox examines the subject of teen drivers, including two bills pre-filed for the state legislative session that would directly affect them.

Young Heroes of AlabamaThis episode features the 2008 winners of APT’s Young Heroes Awards. In a collaborative portrait of these five exceptional young people from throughout Alabama, Alabama Stories’ anchors communicate the inspiring story of students who have demonstrated courage, determination, volunteerism, academic excellence and perseverance in the face of adversity, making a difference in the lives of those around them.

NallFred Nall Hollis, known internationally simply as Nall, grew up in Troy, Alabama. He is celebrated for his unique visual art. Nall credits life in Southern surroundings for his distinctive technique. In January’s Alabama Story, Nall shares his captivating life story with a tender voice and bold accounts. It is as colorful and creative as his art—a tale of art imitating life and life imitating art.

High Crime, Birmingham 35911 with Randy Scott What’s being done to fight crime in Alabama’s largest city? Some federal statistics suggest there could be an increase in violence in the Magic City. As a new police chief settles in the city hall, this program explores what’s being done to stop this alarming trend.

The Drought with Chris NewboldBy year-end 2007, rainfall totals were more than 30 inches below normal in some Alabama cities; an estimated 1.9 million state residents were living under water restrictions. “Alabama Stories” host Chris Newbold examines the impact of the drought on Alabama’s agricultural and recreational industries as well as the daily lives of its citizens.

Alabama Highways and Biways This program examines the past, present and future of Alabama's roads and highways. How were they built in the past? Why does it seem that many of them don't necessarily follow the most direct route to their destination? How are the conditions of the roads impacting safety? And, on a lighter note, what does it take to get a road named after someone?

Teacher Training with Randy ScottSome teachers are getting a the chance to see how a boot camp operates. The teachers are going to Parris Island, South Carolina. The location is a training location for the United State Marine Corps. The purpose of the trip is let teachers and officers learn their shared mission. Instructors in schools are tasked with preparing students for life. The Marines strive to prepare recruits for military service. Both parties hope to share strategies on ways to unlock a young person's full potential. Randy Scoot follows the activity and how it can be life changing.

Rosenwald SchoolsThis is the unique story of three Notasulga, Ala. structures-a school, a church and a cemetery-that have brought together a community in the hope of having them listed on the National Register of Historical Places. The schoolhouse was one of the first Rosenwald schools built in the south. A "Rosenwald School" was the name informally applied to schools, shops and teachers' homes built primarily for the education of African Americans in the early 20th century. Rhonda Colvin reports.

50th Anniversary of Explorer I with Rhonda ColvinThis program examines Alabama’s role in American space exploration as it celebrates the 50th Anniversary of the launch of Explorer I, the first U.S. satellite. Explorer I was launched January 31, 1958 by the Jupiter-C rocket that was developed at Huntsville’s Redstone Arsenal.

Start-Up Weekend with Tim Lennox In early November, eight teams of entrepreneurs meet to pitch their technology business proposals to a Birmingham business incubator, vying to be chosen as the group to land the funding and then launch its company the next weekend. All of the proposals are Internet-based, and all want to be the “next big thing.” Reporter Tim Lennox follows the winning start-up from proposal to launch.

Montgomery BalletAcross the country, ballet companies large and small have been forced to close due to a tough economic climate for the arts. However, instead of having to close the curtain, the Montgomery Ballet seems to be thriving, receiving statewide and international attention in the last few years. How does a ballet company in the heart of the Deep South continue to maintain itself and flourish? Producer Rhonda Colvin examines the ballet company some call one of Alabama's best kept secrets.

Lt. No Kum-SokWhen a young North Korean pilot decides to touch down at a U.S. Air Force base just after the Korean War, he has no idea what the future had in store for him, or even if he would survive. The year was 1953, and Lt. No Kum-Sok was willing to give the Americans – his former enemies – the MiG-15 plane they so desperately wanted to study in exchange for his freedom. Some fifty-five years later, this program traces the events of that defection and where the MiG-15, No Kum-Sok and the Alabama air policeman who befriended him are today.